Ruth Morrison has been appointed as the new Director of the Office of Intergovernmental Affairs for the City of Richmond. The city announced her selection on August 29, 2025. Morrison brings over twelve years of experience in policy, advocacy, and intergovernmental relations, having worked at federal, state, and local levels.
Most recently, Morrison served as Policy Director for the Richmond and Henrico Health Districts. Her background includes roles in nonprofit innovation, electoral and advocacy training, and national environmental organizing.
Delegate Betsy Carr commented on Morrison’s appointment: “I’ve known Ruth for years, as a constituent in the City, also as a committed advocate and talented policy professional. She understands the complexities of the City’s relationship with the General Assembly and all the critical work we must do together to improve lives in Richmond.”
Richmond City Council President Cynthia Newbille also welcomed Morrison to her new role: “Richmond City Council is excited to work with Ms. Morrison in this new role,” says Council President Cynthia Newbille. “After working together to establish Richmond’s Health Equity Fund, I know that she is committed to innovative, evidence-based projects and brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the work of bringing cross-sector partners together,” said Richmond City Council President Cynthia Newbille.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Morrison organized initial containment operations aimed at supporting vulnerable populations in central Virginia. She worked with Richmond City Council to set up the Health Equity Fund using various funding sources to support community services for residents. Morrison has collaborated with state government partners to promote roles such as doulas and community health workers in improving health outcomes for key communities.
She has participated in both the Richmond and Henrico Opioid Abatement Task Forces, focusing on maximizing federal settlement funds through harm reduction initiatives and treatment programs. As part of Mayor Avula’s Transition Executive Team, she contributed recommendations across areas including healthcare access, climate issues, transportation, and behavioral health.
Mayor Danny Avula expressed his support: “I’m thrilled to welcome Ruth, who will build the strategy to align the administration’s priorities with our partners in City Council and RPS so we can advocate as one city. Her leadership, passion, and expertise will advance a thriving Richmond for every resident,” said Mayor Danny Avula.
Locally, Morrison has served on boards such as YMCA Downtown and WRIR radio station committees and participated in housing affordability efforts through various coalitions.
Morrison stated: “What’s important to me about intergovernmental work is finding the win-wins that allow us to realize systems-level changes in partnership with our colleagues at the state, across the region, and beyond.” said Morrison. “That’s been a throughline in my career – no matter my role or institution, we have to put together winning collaborative projects that impact the lives of our neighbors. As a resident of the City and the parent of two RPS kids, I’m grateful to be bringing my experience to City Hall, and I’m ready to get to work for all Richmonders!”
Her first day with the city will be September 29.
